Cases of hepatitis, also known as liver inflammation, have been identified in Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain and the USA. Health officials say they are investigating cases of unexplained hepatitis in children in 4 European Union (EU) countries and the USA.
Last week, UK health officials announced that there were higher-than-normal hepatitis cases among children.
The cause of the infections is not yet known.
The European Center for Disease Control (ECDC) did not specify how many total cases there were in the four countries.
Mentioning less than five cases in Ireland and three cases in Spain, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized the possibility of more cases in the coming days.
ECDC announced that investigations into the cause of infections are continuing in all European countries where cases have been reported.
In the US state of Alabama, the public health unit noted that there were nine cases in children aged 1-6, and two required liver transplants.
It was stated that investigations into similar cases were carried out in other states as well.
The United Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, has had the most cases so far, with a total of 74 cases.
Last week, the UK Health Security Authority announced that among the cases there, the usual viruses that cause infectious hepatitis (hepatitis A to E) were not detected.
Therefore, researchers are considering other possible causes and believe that adenoviruses common in humans may be causing it.
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that cause a number of common illnesses, usually the common cold, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The agency said other possible causes of the infection were also being investigated and did not rule out Covid-19; however, he stressed that there is no obvious link with Covid-19 vaccines.
What is hepatitis?
A broad term used to describe liver inflammation.
Hepatitis, an infection usually caused by viruses, can also be caused by exposure to certain chemicals, excess alcohol, and certain genetic diseases.
Patients have the following symptoms:
- Jaundice on the skin and eyes
- dark urine
- skin itching
- muscle pain
- Loss of appetite
There are five main types of hepatitis, called A, B, C, D and E, caused by certain viruses.
Some hepatitis heal without causing serious problems, while others can be long-term.
However, it was determined that liver inflammations in children were not caused by them.
Health experts recommend paying attention to hygiene rules, especially hand washing, to prevent contamination, to see a doctor if symptoms are observed and if there is a concern about the disease.